Being on the other side of US health care

[zumalong]

I haven't posted in a while--so hi to the familiar faces and non alike. I just wanted to vent alittle because I am so frustrated. I have been in nursing for over 21 years now. I have experienced many different aspects of the medical field. I also still love being a nurse. However, due to health problems, I now find myself unable to work. I am looking at having another major surgery to correct the last major surgery that was done last march.

Here is my twist: I am now on permanent disability--and I feel so guilty taking a check each month. But the whole check goes to pay my cobra payments to maintain health insurance for me and my family. By the time I am done paying the 800.00/mo for the insurance and my copays for meds--I have nothing left!!!!!!!!! I never thought I would be in this boat at this point of my life.

I go into the Dr office and all I see are the drug reps sucking up to the staff with lunches, free meds, tickets to plays etc. and it makes my blood boil. (ok calm down all you medical drug reps--i have been on the receiving end of all that stuff too--I know it is your job) I am sitting here in the state of NY watching everyone lose jobs and wondering how many people aren't as "lucky" as me-- because at least I still have a house and food to feed my boys. My hubby has lost 4 jobs in two years because everything in manufact. has left to go to China in our fair city. Now he works two jobs without benefits.

Ok I am done with my whining and b@@*&ing. Just wanted to let the other side of the healthcare in US be told.

Keep warm and happy:kiss :kiss from the frigid NE.

[live4today, RN]

((((((((((zumalong)))))))))) :kiss I wish I could wave a magic wand and make living your life so much better, cure your health, and give you hope for a brighter future. It sucks to not be able to do the things we once did in life when we truly enjoyed doing those things. You're in my prayers. Welcome (home) to allnurses where I'm sure you'll find lots of support and things to make you laugh through it all...even for a moment. :kiss

[fiestynurse]

You should write a letter to President Bush and the Democratic Presidential hopefuls. They need to hear stories like yours.

Contacting the White House

Mailing Address:

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20500

Phone Numbers:

Comments: 202-456-1111

Switchboard: 202-456-1414

FAX: 202-456-2461

E-Mail:

President George W. Bush: [email protected]

Vice President Richard Cheney: [email protected]

Contacting John Kerry

National Headquarters

John Kerry for President, Inc.

519 C Street, NE

Washington, DC 20002

202-548-6800

202-548-6801 (fax)

[jnette, ASN, EMT-I]

It hurts me deeply to read this... I am truly so very sorry, Zumalong.

It is so sad to know that at any given time, we who have given so much of ourselves.. indeed our ALL... may have this bleak and tragic prospect looming on the horizon of our own future.

Indeed, we must count and enjoy our blessings while we have them, for they can all too soon disappear.

Please allow us to be a shoulder and an ear.. we are here for you.

((((((((((( HUGS )))))))))))

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Sorry to hear that you are going through this.

$800.00/month for health care, for someone who can't work is obscene.

Hugs.

[jemb]

Zumalong, sorry to hear about your family's misfortunes, especially your health problems. My thoughts are with you. Bless your dh for his hard work to keep the family going.

None of us know when we could face unexpected turns in our lives. About 15 years ago, I had a major injury with extensive bills (high deductible, then 80/20), had major storm damage to my house which was deemed an 'act of God', therefore not covered by insurance, and was "phased out" of my job while I was off work recuperating.

(That just happened to be the time that the facility decided to replace their experienced nurses with lesser experienced, therefore lower paid, nurses. The new hires had 'no cancel' clauses in their contracts, so the facility could always cancel the more expensive nurses, therefore forcng them to leave without having to lay off and pay unemployment.)

Life was a daily struggle for a number of years of first mending physically, then financially- emotionally and psychically had to wait til last. At times, it seemed that there would be no end to the everyday stress of just keeping up with it all. I had to be extrememly creative in managing my finances and in creating some interim income.

Point is that I am still here, I did not lose my home, I did not file bankruptcy, and I found my way out of the difficulties. We find strength when we need it and sometimes where we least expect to find it.

You will get through all this, too. :kiss

[dianah, ASN]

Have you checked into any other insurance options? COBRA seems high-range to me. I truly wish for better for you and yours. Keep us informed. -- D